Shrimp & Lentil Crunch Salad

Instructions

1. Prepare Vegetables and Herbs

   8 min hands-on

   • Remove the tough outer leaves of the cabbage and finely shred it into thin strips.
   • Peel and slice the onion thinly.
   • Halve the tomatoes and set aside.
   • Rinse the lentils under cold water and allow them to drain.
   • Remove the basil leaves from their stems and keep them whole.

2. Make the Dressing Base

   1 min hands-on10 min waiting

   • In a large mixing bowl, combine the sliced onions, vinegar, olive oil, and a pinch of salt.
   • Toss thoroughly to ensure the onions absorb the tangy flavors.
   • Let the mixture sit for 10 minutes to lightly pickle the onions.

3. Cook the Garlic and Shrimp

   6 min hands-on

   • Peel and slice the garlic thinly.
   • Heat a frying pan over medium heat and add olive oil.
   • Add the sliced garlic and cook, stirring frequently, until golden and fragrant, about 2 minutes.
   • Add the shrimp and cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pink and fully cooked.
   • Remove from heat and set aside.

4. Combine Salad Ingredients

   2 min hands-on

   • In the bowl with the onions, add the shredded cabbage, drained lentils, halved tomatoes, cayenne pepper, and whole basil leaves.
   • Toss gently but thoroughly to coat the ingredients with the dressing.

5. Assemble the Salad with Shrimp

   1 min hands-on

   • Add the cooked garlic and shrimp, along with any pan juices, to the salad bowl.
   • Sprinkle with black pepper.
   • Toss gently to distribute the shrimp and garlic evenly.

6. Serve

   1 min hands-on

   • Transfer the salad to a serving platter or individual plates.
   • Garnish with extra basil leaves and serve immediately.
   • Cooking tips:
   • For extra crunch, toast a handful of nuts or seeds and sprinkle them over the salad before serving.
   • If you prefer a spicier kick, increase the amount of cayenne pepper or add thinly sliced fresh chili to the salad.
   • To enhance the umami flavor, add a small drizzle of soy sauce or fish sauce to the dressing.
   • Use fresh, firm tomatoes for the juiciest results. If tomatoes are out of season, consider using cherry tomatoes for better flavor.